Evaluation of the soil properties and primary forest tree species in Taskopru (Kastamonu) district

Abstract

Turkey has different habitat conditions resulting from a wide diversity of climatic and psycho-graphical conditions. Different relationships of topography and climate have caused different geographical and ecological regions. These regional differences significantly affect the spread of plant species and determine distinct species' compositions in different regions. Consequently, Turkey has high pure and mixed natural forests with biological and economic value in terms of both tree species and stand constitutions. Tending works done in the forests has also changed the relationship of light, temperature and humidity in the forest ecosystems. As a result, soil and litter properties changed. Altitude, aspect, slope, topography and soil properties are effective factors for a habitat's productivity. This present study was aimed at determining the properties of the soil and primary tree species located in the Taşköprü district of Kastamonu Province. Taşköprü district is located in the western Black Sea region of the Black Region and is geographically in the Euro-Siberian floristic region. Soil samples were taken from 15 different points, including 5 each from three different areas representing each tree species and from soils under different forest tree species (Scotch pine, black pine, oak) in the Taşköprü region. The stand characteristics of these species, such as age, height, diameter, frequency and litter condition, were measured in the field. Texture, pH, bulk density, organic matter, electrical conductivity (EC) and maximum water holding capacity were determined from the soil samples. These were evaluated for the different forest tree species and obtained soil analysis results.